Herding Group
Breeds in the Herding Group were originally classified under the Working Group until 1983, when they were separated into their own distinct group. All these breeds share an innate instinct to control the movement of other animals and were primarily developed for gathering, herding, and protecting livestock.
German Shepherd Dog
Widely regarded as one of the finest all-purpose working dogs, the German Shepherd Dog is a large, athletic, and powerfully built breed known for its noble character and exceptional intelligence. Loyal, confident, courageous, and steady-natured, the German Shepherd embodies everything dog enthusiasts admire in a true working companion. German Shepherd Dogs can reach up to 26 inches in height at the shoulder and display a graceful outline defined by smooth, flowing curves rather than sharp angles. Their natural movement is a relaxed, ground-covering trot, though they are capable of accelerating quickly and achieving impressive speed when needed. While there are many reasons the German Shepherd holds a place of honor among canine royalty, experts agree that the breed’s defining quality is its character—marked by unwavering loyalty, courage, self-assurance, remarkable trainability, and a readiness to place itself in harm’s way to protect those it loves. German Shepherds are gentle and devoted family companions as well as vigilant guardians, though the breed standard notes a certain reserved nature that prevents immediate and indiscriminate friendships.
Belgian Sheepdog
The Belgian Sheepdog is a highly trainable herding breed whose intelligence and versatility have earned it legendary status among working dogs. Built for demanding tasks, this breed thrives on hard work and purposeful activity. Sensitive and people-oriented, Belgian Sheepdogs form deep bonds with their humans and do poorly when neglected. The striking outline of the Belgian Sheepdog blends elegance with muscular strength. One of the breed’s most attractive features is the proud carriage of the head and neck. Males can stand up to 26 inches at the shoulder, with females somewhat smaller. Dark, expressive eyes shine with curiosity and intelligence, while the abundant black coat flows from the distinctive neck “collarette” to the well-feathered “breeches” of the hindquarters. In every sense, the Belgian Sheepdog is alert, enthusiastic, and full of drive. Whether in sport, work, or daily activity, this breed consistently gives its all. In return, owners often develop a uniquely strong bond with these eager work partners. As admirers of the breed often note, Belgian Sheepdogs inspire profound loyalty because they themselves live and love with remarkable passion.
Collie
The majestic Collie is one of the most recognizable and cherished dog breeds in the world, a status earned through more than a century as a pop-culture icon. While the full-coated “rough” Collie is the most familiar version, the breed also includes the sleek and elegant “smooth” Collie. Both varieties share the same noble character and athletic build. Collies are large yet graceful herding dogs, standing between 22 and 26 inches at the shoulder. The rough Collie is renowned for one of the most striking and luxurious coats in the canine world, while the smooth Collie offers a cleaner, more understated elegance. Coat colors in both varieties include sable and white, tricolor, blue merle, and white. A defining feature of the breed is the refined, wedge-shaped head, with expressive almond eyes and mobile ears capable of conveying a wide range of emotions. Celebrated for their gentleness and devotion, Collies are famously affectionate with children and make outstanding family companions. They are intelligent, loyal, and eager to learn, responding best to calm, kind training methods. These athletic dogs thrive on regular exercise and close human companionship, and their intelligence, loyalty, and noble temperament have made the Collie a true legend among dog breeds.
Belgian Malinois
Smart, confident, and highly versatile, the Belgian Malinois is a world-class working dog that forms an intense and unbreakable bond with its human partner. Depriving a Malinois of activity and close companionship is to deny the very purpose that drives this breed. They thrive on engagement, teamwork, and meaningful work alongside their owner. Belgian Malinois are squarely built, proud, and alert herders standing between 22 and 26 inches at the shoulder. Powerfully muscled yet refined rather than bulky, they possess a straightforward, no-nonsense appearance befitting a dog bred to work hard. One of the breed’s defining traits is the proud carriage of the head. Coat colors range from rich fawn to deep mahogany, accented by black ears and a black facial mask that highlight bright, inquisitive eyes the color of dark Belgian chocolate. Anyone who has witnessed a Belgian Malinois perform in obedience or working trials understands the breed’s exceptional intelligence and eagerness to learn. However, behavioral issues can arise when this people-oriented dog is underworked or ignored. Regular, demanding exercise—preferably shared side by side with a devoted owner—is essential to the happiness, balance, and well-being of the Belgian Malinois.
Border Collie
Exceptionally intelligent and driven to work, the Border Collie is a remarkable breed—sometimes even too remarkable for owners who lack the time, energy, or commitment to keep it properly engaged. Though intensely focused on tasks, Borders are affectionate companions who happily relax and enjoy cuddle time once the day’s work is complete. Border Collies are athletic, medium-sized herding dogs standing between 18 and 22 inches at the shoulder. Their appearance reflects strength and agility rather than exaggeration, giving them a timeless, functional look. They come in both rough and smooth coat varieties, each available in a wide range of colors and patterns. The almond-shaped eyes are a defining feature, expressing keen intelligence and the breed’s famous intense “herding eye.” In motion, Border Collies rank among the most agile, balanced, and enduring dogs in the canine world. Their exceptional intelligence, athleticism, and eagerness to learn find a perfect outlet in activities such as agility, herding, and obedience work. Having a meaningful job to do is essential to a Border Collie’s happiness and well-being. While friendly and pleasant with familiar people, they may be somewhat reserved around strangers.
Shetland Sheepdog
The Shetland Sheepdog, commonly known as the Sheltie, is a highly intelligent, quick, and responsive herding breed originating from Scotland’s rugged Shetland Islands. Closely resembling its larger relative, the Collie, the Sheltie is a small yet energetic and agile working dog. Standing between 13 and 16 inches at the shoulder, the Shetland Sheepdog is compact but athletic in build. Its long, straight outer coat is harsh in texture, supported by a dense undercoat, and appears in black, blue merle, or sable, always accented with white markings. A refined wedge-shaped head, small ears carried three-quarters erect, and a deep chest with a level back give the breed the appearance of a miniature rough-coated Collie. Bright, eager, and highly trainable, Shelties excel in obedience, agility, and herding competitions. They are affectionate, sensitive family companions who are keenly aware of household emotions. Naturally vocal and somewhat reserved with strangers, the Shetland Sheepdog possesses all the qualities of an excellent watchdog.
Bearded Collie
The Bearded Collie is a lively and charismatic droving dog from Scotland, instantly recognizable by its shaggy coat and exuberant personality. Often called the “Beardie” by admirers, this breed thrives on outdoor activity and happily enjoys exercise in all types of weather. Bred to think independently, Beardies can be strong-willed at times, but they are consistently friendly and good-natured. Standing between 20 and 22 inches at the shoulder and covered from head to tail in a long, shaggy double coat, the Bearded Collie bears a resemblance to the Old English Sheepdog. Beneath the abundant coat, however, the Beardie is leaner and more angular in build. The flowing facial hair should never hide the breed’s hallmark expression—a soft, dreamy, faraway look. These high-spirited entertainers can sometimes be a handful, but they are best described as a bundle of heart, energy, and joy. Well-socialized Bearded Collies typically get along well with children and other animals. They can become bored easily, so training should be varied and engaging. For active, outdoors-oriented families seeking a sturdy, affectionate, and endlessly amusing companion, the Bearded Collie is a nearly perfect match.
Puli
No other breed is quite like the Puli—a compact yet powerful herding dog distinguished by its remarkable, naturally forming cords that cover the body from head to tail. Developed to work in close partnership with humans, the Puli is agile, loyal, and highly intelligent, learning new tasks quickly and with enthusiasm. The breed’s most recognizable feature is its distinctive corded coat, often compared to dreadlocks. These naturally occurring cords are dense, woolly, and highly resistant to harsh weather conditions. Whether kept corded or brushed out, the Puli’s coat demands consistent and careful maintenance. Beneath this unique exterior lies a strong, well-balanced dog standing between 16 and 17 inches at the shoulder. Light on its feet and exceptionally nimble, the Puli is famed for its athletic ability and is often described as the “acrobat of the dog world.”
Australian Shepherd
The Australian Shepherd is a tough, athletic ranch dog whose heritage tells a distinctly American story—a European-rooted breed further shaped in California after traveling through Australia. Deeply connected to rodeo traditions and cowboy culture, the Aussie has become one of the most trusted herding partners for working ranchers. Medium in size yet powerful in ability, the Australian Shepherd is admired for its piercing gaze and unwavering concentration. Its coat appears in several eye-catching varieties, including merle patterns marked by marbled shades of blue or red. Every aspect of the breed reflects strength, agility, and precision in handling livestock. Possessing a powerful and instinctive herding drive, Australian Shepherds may attempt to herd nearly anything that moves—birds, other dogs, and even children. This intense work ethic can be overwhelming for inactive households. Highly intelligent and quick-witted, Aussies are fully capable of outmaneuvering inexperienced owners. In short, this breed is not suited to everyone. However, for those seeking a tireless, trainable, and brilliant working or sporting companion, the Australian Shepherd can be an exceptional choice.
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